FDA Peanut Butter Product Recall...

I just read how our esteemed Melissa Tanner may have fallen victim to the recent salmonella outbreak associated to certain peanut butter, peanut paste and peanut ingredients in common food products.

In an effort to help our masses, I have pasted below a live link to the official US FDA (Food and Drug Administration) web page that lists all peanut product recalls and also has a convenient search feature. The list is quite comprehensive and includes products you may not suspect like cake, cookies, ice cream, etc.

http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/peanutbutterrecall/index.cfm

The main FDA information page on the salmonella outbreak contains wide ranging information on topics such as reporting a complaint, news updates, as well as information on salmonella itself and can be found here: http://www.fda.gov/oc/opacom/hottopics/salmonellatyph.html

Please take a moment to check if any peanut related food items in your possession are on the recall list - it could save you unnecessary illness.

- JARRIN

Weekend Runs

On Saturday a few of us will be doing a final workout at the USATF course in Derwood at 10:00am. There will also be a run from the store on M Street at 9:00am.

On Sunday we're meeting at RILEY'S LOCK for a trail run up the Greenway Trail at 10:00am. We usually run 8 up and 8 back and then add on along the Towpath. This is similar to the run we did at Difficult Run a couple weeks ago, though it won't be as muddy (I think) or as hilly.

THE SUNDAY RUN IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE IF IT IS TOO MUDDY AND THE TRAIL DEEMED "UN-RUNNABLE" (i.e. - too muddy and therefor counter intuitive for a solid run). Check back.

As always all are encouraged and welcome.

Wednesday Workout at B-CC

What are people planning on running for the workout tomorrow, or is it still up for debate?

Shamrock 5K

The SHAMROCK 5K is a super fast, USATF certified race in Baltimore. It's definitely a PR course. Last year I went through the first mile in 4:32...and I was in 5th place!! They cap the race at 4,000 and it fills up very quickly. It's run in the afternoon just before a huge parade. After the race we drink Guinness and whiskey without shame.

I am sending my form in TODAY via Active. Prices go up $5 after Saturday and usually it fills to capacity shortly thereafter.

Also, there is team competition. I think this is new this year. Please write "Georgetown Running Company" on your entry form if you plan to do this race. So far it looks like Hughes, Bain, Reaves, Double C and Melissa have expessed interested.

MAIL
http://www.charmcityrun.com/registration/shamrock5k_reg.html

ONLINE
http://www.active.com/page/Event_Details.htm?event_id=1659129&assetId=12127576-0601-4850-a174-04b50d339e13

NO RAIL ON THE TRAIL 10k

All,

OUR CHEVY CHASE STORE IS PUTTING ON A RACE ON MARCH 7th enitled NO RAIL ON THE TRAIL. Its a 1ok. We are working in concert with the Save the Trail coalition in Bethesda to help in their effort to prevent the development of a rail line adjacent to the beloved Capital Crescent Trail.

What would Chris Bain do if his run along the trail was disturbed?

Check out the website and register!

http://www.therunningcompany.net/norailonthetrail10k.html

Singlets Needed

I am in need of 3 or 4 of the NEW GRC singlets for use at the USATF XC race next weekend (2/7). We will have 11 athletes competing on two separate teams, but a few of the guys need to borrow a singlet.

If you are not racing and have a singlet that I can borrow please let me know. I will then get it distributed. I will make sure it gets back to you...and I'll even make sure it gets washed. Thanks.

FYI - in other XC news, there is a post-race party following the event. Details are below...

Join fellow participants at the official post-race party (presented by the Georgetown Running Company) at Uncle Julio's from 4:00-6:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 7, 2009. Uncle Julio's is located .3 miles from the headquarters hotel (Courtyard Gaithersburg Washingtonian Center). Each athlete will receive one drink ticket. Appetizers will be available.

Uncle Julio's
231 Rio Boulevard
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
240.632.2150

Long Run Question

After missing the running group on Saturday because I forgot to turn on my alarm, I decided to go out and do my first long run in my marathon training plan. I did 17-down the Mt. Vernon Trail, over the 14th St. Bridge, along the river to Rock Creek, then up Rock Creek to Tilden, over to the trails, down the trails and back to my place in Courthouse. I ran 2:15 for the 17 miles.

I averaged 7:30 for the first 9 miles but slowed down to 8:30 pace for the final 8 miles. Now some of the slowdown was due to some big hills in and coming out of Rock Creek, but I did lose energy during the second half of my run.

Should I be using goo or some sort of energy supplement on these runs? I'm thinking that it would have helped me after about 90 minutes into the run. When is the best time to take a goo packet? An hour in? 90 minutes in?

Thanks

Jonathan

FINAL: SATURDAY @ 9:00AM - M STREET

SAT RUN

All,

First and foremost,

I really enjoy running with the group on Saturdays. Its the only time I can run with everyone during the week.

For good or for worse, I need to do the run at 830am. I open the store at 10am and cannot run then.

Also, we do not want to have too many runners lingering about much past 1030am as the store begins to pick up and we need to focus on business. Our g-town store is our busiest location and we need it cleared for business.

I am not upset but rather disappointed as I will not be able to do either of the weekends runs since the Sunday run is at 10am.

As for tomorrow and every Sat, I will be at the store to open up for the National Marathon training program at 8am and then will do a run at 830am with whomever will join me.

As for the 10am run, people can leave their belongings in the back. However, post run, I would appreciate it if you socialize at a local coffee house or such.

Not trying to be a dictator but just point out some time constraint issues I am facing as well as basic store management protocol.

M

Weekend Runs

TONIGHT, 6:15PM - B-CC
Track workout...followed by a trip to Rock Bottom Brewery. Do it!

SATURDAY, 9AM - M STREET - AMENDED!!!
Per the poll, it appears as if we'll be meeting at the store at 10am for the remainder of the winter. This allows for some extra sleep and more importantly for the mercury to rise a bit more. Route TBD.

SUNDAY, 10AM - EDWARDS FERRY
This is a "slam dunk" place to do long runs. The "Dual Ferries" Loop is 10 miles and we usually do it twice. It is entirely on natural terrain (half on the Towpath and half on a dirt road). Often times we run it as a group for one loop before adding on (whether it is another loop or an out and back). Directions are on the "where we run" link. It's a hike, but well worth it. Come even if you don't plan to run 20. We will probably hit up "the 'bux" afterwards.

Boston is CLOSED

Registration is closed for the 2009 Boston Marathon.

The Boston Marathon does not have a waiting list, late registration on race weekend, or race day registration. The names of all official entrants are published on the B.A.A. web site.

Please note that bib numbers are not transferrable. Those attempting to transfer their bib numbers, as well as those in receipt of a transferred entry, will be disqualified.

The Boston Athletic Association thanks you for your cooperation.

The 114th Boston Marathon will be run on Monday, April 19, 2010; tentatively, applications will begin to be accepted in September 2009.

ITS ALL MENTAL

For the first time in several years, my legs feel normal. I have been running when I can. No watch, no thinking, no analysis of running and my body, no massage people or therapists, or doctors.

I am too busy and focused on other matters. When I was running my best, running was an afterthought and done to compliment my overall life.

Once it became an all too powerful center of life it became less fun, i did too much of it and eventually, got injured.

Life lesson taken in and digested.

Max's little journey

Workout

No workout tonight...but that is not to say you "can't" workout!

We may hold the workout on Friday instead.

CHANGE/A DREAM/PROGRESS AND AN EXPERIMENT CALLED AMERICA

The last few days have been strange, to say the least.

I came to DC 10 years ago as a younger idealist. I got a job at the National Park Service headquarters working in a program to help economically disadvantaged youth learn job skills and get jobs in the conservation arena. This was a program heavily supported by the Clinton administration. It was a collaborative venture between the Department of the Interior and the Department of Labor.

This was a great job and gave me insight and exposure to an initiative that given breathing room, can succeed to improve the lives of the less fortunate.

Kids that normally might get shut out of the game were given an opportunity to acquire important vocational skills making them more marketable for the world they would soon enter into.

When Clinton left, Bush was elected and 9/11 happened. The world, the state of idealism and the direction of our country changed. Perhaps it changed out of necessity, perhaps not. History will judge whether this be the case.

Somewhere within this time period the program lost support and momentum.

I left and went into other worlds. Running took up some of the void and became a passion.

Monday morning(MLK day) as I was driving to meet the guys for a run, I listened to Martin Luther King Jr on the radio. He was making a sermon right before he was killed. He was talking about helping out sanitation workers who were on strike in Memphis. He was trying to communicate the value of helping others over self. His passion and ability to communicate moved millions.

As he spoke it dawned on me that without Martin Luther King Jr. there would most likely not be a Barack Obama.

King and others made sacrifices so that others might reach their potential.

For you folks in your mid-late 20s, Barack presents an avenue for you to express your ideas and and ensure that the future is brighter. Your age group, more than any other, got him elected.

He is your floor general and I really believe will define your generation.



run strong

Workouts

I've started posting upcoming workouts and group runs (in a different color) on the calendar. I don't want to get too far ahead of myself, but I (personally) think it's a good idea to write down workouts well in advance so that I can craft my schedule around them. Many of us are training for different distances, but can meet half way when it comes to workout distance/pace.

If you have an idea for a workout feel free to throw it up on the calendar.

PARTY

YO

I am all for this Ball. However, I am working manana and will not have lots of time to buy food and drink. With this being said, please bring what you want to consume. What I can provide is an open space, some music and being situated close to the action.

Tomorrow we are kicking off the inauguration with a 9am run from the store. We will jog along the parameters of the security area and pay tribute. After the run, we will be serving some hot chocolate and having bagels at the store.

M

GRC BALL

A few of us have bandied about the idea of a GRC Inaugural Ball tomorrow night at the Georgetown store around 8. It's perfect for those of us who have been forced to turn down invitations to the more fancy, pretentious affairs. Please post a reply so that we know how many might be interested. Gentlemen would be encouraged to wear ties, ladies dresses.

Marathon Recommendations

I'm looking to run my first marathon in May after I finish with classes. Right now I am looking at Pittsburgh (where my brother lives) or Frederick on May 3rd. I'm also thinking about Eugene, which is also on May 3rd. Some buddies of mine from undergraduate organize and direct the Eugene marathon. The big hurdle there is expense-I will be going to a bachelor party in March in Vegas and a wedding in Green Bay in May so I don't know how much extra fundage I will have for another cross country plane ticket plus hotel.

I have three goals for this marathon. Main Goal: Qualify for Boston in 2010. I will be 35 then, so that means running 3:15. Secondary goal: Run 3:10. Ultimate goal: Run 3:00.

I'm wondering if anyone has any thoughts or experiences with the above marathons, or could recommend another one that I should run.

Thanks

Jonathan

INAUGURATION RUN AND CELEBRATE WITH THE RUNNNING COMPANY

The Georgetown Running Company is hosting a run to celebrate the Inauguration of the new president. The run will have to be in sync with the security measures already in place. With this being said, the run will start at the G-town store at 3401 M st in Georgetown at 9am and make its way to as close to the parameter of the Inauguration security. It will be an easy affair in order to take in the occasion and pay our respects.

The run will end back at the store. For the duration of the day, the store will air the Inauguration on TV and celebrate the day by serving light refreshments and drinks.

If you have any questions, please call 202-337-8626.

Summer & Fall

In an effort to project where GRC can put its resources, I started adding months (and races) to the GRC Race Calendar. I know it's not even spring, but my guess is that many of you have an "idea" on what BIG races you want to do. Take a look over the next week and start adding your names, races or additional weeks to the calendar. I'd like to find out (in advance) which of these races have team competition and, in turn, team race fees. I understand none of this is etched in stone. Thanks.

Weekend Runs

Saturday - 8:30am at the Georgetown Store. A reliable source indicates there will be bagels and hot chocolate after the run.

Sunday - there is talk about running the Greenway Trail which starts (or ends?) at Riley's Lock. The Greenway trail is an out-and-back cross country-style trail that meanders alongside Seneca Creek from the Potomac River to Derwood, Md. Rough map is here. It is quite beautiful, especially this time of year. You're well protected from the wind. We'll likely run 14 or so on the trail and then add on by finishing up on the C&O Canal via Violettes (sic) Lock. 10am. Starbucks after the run.

Monday - assuming people have it off, does anyone want to run on MLK day? Maybe "The Line" for an easy 12 miles or so? Any other thoughts?

Tuesday - it'd be fun to do a run through The Mall on Innauguration Day. Though, I don't even know if I have that day off yet.

EARLY AM RUNS

A group of people meet at 16th and Newton in the hood at 630am. We have for the last few days and will do so tomorrow. We run for an hr or so. Good run and we see different sites and go to different areas of the city.

So far the group consists of Pat M, Pat H and Max. Not sure who else lives around the Morgan, Columbia Heights, Mt. Pleasant area, etc. If you do and lurk on this blog and want to run, show up and have fun.

M

Track Workout?

Hey, i didnt even know i could post in here...

I wanted to know if any of you guys is going to hit the track this week (hopefully you didnt do it today). It seems that on Saturday, while slipping I twisted my knee, and right now Im totally lame, but Id like to go to B-CC High School if I'm better tomorrow.

By the way, damned Derwood Course.
I'm so happy I'm not running in February.
Ill be there though, with a chair and a bucket of popcorn, right on that downhill curve. Ice on the ground, 200 people and 6 loops. Its gonna be cool, I hope some random guy forgets the spikes.

Thanks anyway,

diego

ART (active release techniques)

Can anyone recommend an ART-certified doc/trainer/therapist in the DC area? I'm having tightness issues with my right leg, specifically in the region where I had a stress fracture last year (yikes). I appreciate any leads.

Boston Team

Any other men out there running Boston this year? I want to put together a men's team. We need at least three and I know of three so far: Ernst, Jarrin, and me. Ideally, we would have some more depth, especially since Jarrin probably shouldn't run it (according to a recent poll). If you're still undecided, be aware that it may fill up soon. Please post a comment here or add yourself to the race calendar.

MONEY SIGHTING

Before there was anybody on this team, there was Steve(right on the)Money. For those that do not know, Steve Money is a great marathoner who can run 2:30 when on his game. I met him about 5 years ago at the Washington Running Club Sunday runs.

I saw him trucking up conneticut ave the other day with a determined look in his eyes. So, it appears, he is back to running.

Where We Run

PMurphy created the "Where We Run" links for the sidebar. This should include a map/directions to most (if not all?) of the places we regularly meet to run. If there are others you want to include, let me know and I can add them.

WRR Fall Rankings

GRCers in RED


MEN
Pl Name Age Hometown
1 Abebe, Abiyot**** 21 Silver Spring, MD
2 Hallinan, Steve** 22 Washington, DC
3 Cheromei, David* 29 Lynchburg, VA
4 Alemu, Dagne* 27 Silver Spring, MD
5 Hawkins, Jaron* 25 Frostburg, MD
6 Christian, Will* 25 Norfolk, VA
7 Crane, Steven* 27 Arlington, VA
8 Komen, Wilson 30 Washington, DC
9 Brigham, Nate 25 Washington, DC
10 Barresi, Matt 25 Falls Church, VA
11 Nigussie, Denjene 24 Potomac, MD
12 Rodriguez, Bert*** 29 Arlington, VA
13 Sisay, Ezkyas*** 19 Burke, VA
14 Mance, Steve 24 Alexandria, VA
15 Alton, Guy* 24 Richmond, VA
16 Outaleb, Mouhcine* 30 Baltimore, MD
17 Wardian, Michael 34 Arlington, VA
18 Smits, Kyle 29 Baltimore, MD
19 Renjifo, Carlos 25 Columbia, MD
20 Carroll, Ryan**** 26 Portsmouth, VA
21 Chaffee, Cary 24 Richmond, VA
22 Macadie, Patrick 25 Washington, DC
23 Fahey, Timothy 34 Alexandria, VA
24 McGuire, Pat 26 Charlottesville, VA
25 Eversmeyer, Alex* 27 Gaithersburg, MD
26 Pierret, Derrin* 23 Williamsburg, VA
27 Angell, David* 32 Blue Ridge, VA
28 Fritzius, Justin*6 23 Purcellville, VA
29 Molz, Jon* 22 Richmond, VA
30 Tarantino, William** 25 Gloucester Point, VA
31 Tepovich, Danny* 29 Virginia Beach, VA
32 Anderson, Scott 34 Washington, DC
33 Bray, Derryn* 24 Poquoson, VA
34 Blasiak, Sam 28 Falls Church, VA
35 Pugsley, Ray 39 Potomac Falls, VA
36 Silverman, Peter** 24 Washington, DC
37 Reaves, Patrick 23 Silver Spring, MD
38 Morris, Tim 36 Richmond, VA
39 Kartalia, Steve* 43 Westminster, MD
40 Stickley, Mark 46 Winchester, VA
41 Fortin, Matt** 24 Annapolis, MD
42 Wetzel, JJ 23 Charlottesville, VA
43 Straughn, Matt* 31 Glenn Dale, MD
44 Wright, Andres 41 Frederick, MD
45 Shaeffer, Chris 24 Purcellville, VA
46 Miller, David* 25 Leesburg, VA
47 Schaefer, Tim* 30 Gaithersburg, MD
48 Piggott, John 43 Williamsburg, VA
49 Church, Aaron 33 South Riding, VA
50 Saunders, Richard* 20 Richmond, VA
51 Loper, Shawn* 30 Bel Air, MD
52 Butler, Lewis 24 Richmond, VA

WOMEN
Pl Name Age Hometown
1 Gebre, Belainesh* 20 Burke, VA
2 Desta, Alemgena**** 27 Silver Spring, MD
3 Mandefro, Hirut** 23 Silver Spring, MD
4 Akbar, Samia** 26 Oak Hill, VA
5 Ko, Phebe** 25 Baltimore, MD
6 Fenster, Cate** 37 Bethesda, MD
7 Tanner, Melissa** 27 Bethesda, MD
8 Manero, Lauren 27 Alexandria, VA
9 High, Renee** 27 Virginia Beach, VA
10 Orlova, Elena*** 38 Gaithersburg, MD
11 Mejdoub, Malika 26 Baltimore, MD
12 Delelecha, Yihunish 27 Washington, DC
13 Baker, Amy 24 Manassas, VA
14 Harvey, Alisa 43 Manassas, VA
15 Fallon-Wallace, Barbara 34 Alexandria, VA
16 Rudd, Julia* 25 Herndon, VA
17 Knize, Elizabeth** 26 Midlothian, VA
18 Saunders, Shannon 24 Forest, VA
19 Van Cleef, Aidan** 23 Chesapeake, VA
20 Nelson, Martha* 27 Chevy Chase, MD
21 Knickman, Denise** 40 Baltimore, MD
22 Swain, Erin 26 Arlington, VA
23 Nemmers, Erica 36 Herndon, VA
24 Jefferson, Laurel* 23 Bethesda, MD
25 Cunningham, Michelle 33 Centreville, VA
26 Davison, Mary** 36 Bristow, VA
27 Markowicz, Kristi** 38 Newport News, VA
28 Rodgers, Jilane* 24 Washington, DC
29 Cairns, Hilary 38 Washington, DC
30 Stick, Sherry* 30 Sykesville, MD
31 Fitzgerald, Jenny 29 Montclair, VA
32 Harburg, Michelle 26 Washington, DC
33 Conley, Carrie 34 Gainesville, VA
34 Uhl, Alice** 33 Fincastle, VA
35 Korbel, Faith 29 Washington, DC
36 Menk, Josephine* 47 Montpelier, VA
37 Swarts, Heidi* 34 Baltimore, MD
38 Pugsley, Cathy 39 Potomac Falls, VA
39 Smith, Julia* 40 Tappahannock, VA
40 Villani, Leisa* 50 Virginia Beach, VA
41 Kirby, Samantha 40 Arlington, VA
42 Oleynik, Anya 20 Gaithersburg, MD
43 Pak, Colleen 38 Virginia Beach, VA
44 Tripp, Ann 22 Fredericksburg, VA
45 Schrank, Brenda* 36 Winchester, VA
46 Foley, Linda 46 Oak Hill, VA
47 Russell, Danielle* 44 Ashburn, VA
48 Taylor, Kelley 23 Virginia Beach, VA
49 Perotti, Ofelia 52 Alexandria, VA
50 Sheppard, Rosalind 41 Bowie, MD
51 Freres, Anita* 43 Reston, VA
52 Schwab, Jessica** 26 Mechanisville, MD
53 DeFrancesco, Molly* 28 Suffolk, VA
54 Gauvin, Dionis** 34 Alexandria, VA
55 Tiernan, Amanda* 30 Gaithersburg, MD
56 Braner, Elyse 24 Washington, DC
57 Shannon, Laura** 46 Williamsburg, VA
58 Versendaal, Kendra 28 Alexandria, VA
59 Ramos, Laura* 29 Bethesda, MD
60 Flick, Ashley 27 South Riding, VA
61 Wilkerson, Pat* 49 Columbia , MD
62 Christopher, Mary 24 Washington, DC
63 Parks, Rebecca 20 Reisterstown, MD

SUNDAY RUN AND MORE

I would like to do a long run on Sunday. However, I need to start at 8am. Does anyone have to get one in early? If so, let me know and we can arrange a place to meet.


ALSO.......

If anyone is coming to the store on Sat for the run, please come early(8am). A Reebok Athlete named Lindsey Gallo will be there to lead a run and talk to people about running.

Weekend Runs

A number of us have expressed interest in running workouts at the USATF XC course in Derwood. In an effort to maintain a Sunday long run, we're going to hold a handful of these workouts on Saturdays.

So, this SATURDAY we're meeting at the Derwood course at 9am for the first of these workouts. We'll run an on/off for 5-6 laps (2k) and get a feel for the course. Nothing too crazy.

On SUNDAY a few of us are meeting at Difficult Run at 10am. We'll be doing a 16 mile loop. Some are running longer...and I am sure there is a loop for those running shorter.

RSVP if you plan on coming so we don't roll off without you.

Wednesday Night Workout

Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School at 6:45pm on January 7
Tentative Plan is subject to change - 10x600m @5k pace

New Year Health Check-Up

Thought I'd post and see what kind of physical shape everyone, yes, even Jarrin, is in at the start of 2009. So, post your name and your conditions (liver problems OK is you feel you can talk about them...) and lets all see how everyone else is doing. Oh, so no one gets left out...you can post your mental shape. Happy New Year.

STORIES/SERVICE/PURPOSE AND THE RUNNING SHOP

For the last few days I have had some interesting experiences working at the Running Shop. I enjoy talking to people about running/life and more.

Yesterday, or maybe the day before, I had the privilege of talking to a young West Point officer who had spent the last 4 years of his life in Iraq leading a platoon on the front lines. He was between Pat Reaves and Jake's age. A young, handsome well spoken guy who seemed to be as humble as they come. When I found out his occupation I asked him some questions about what his experience was like. Without elaborating too much here and regardless of what your opinion of the war might be, this gent was polite, honest and seemed very much committed to the ideal of service.

When all was said and done he assured me he was just glad to be back home and be able to run without being shot at.

Later on during the same day, another young man came in. He seemed to be about the same age. We began to talk about shoes and running and somehow the conversation went towards his occupation and how running might be an asset to his life. After some time, he communicated that he did not like his job/life, etc too much and wanted to go to business school to make lots of $$$$. I asked him if he knew what made him happy. He said he was not sure but that making lots of $$$$ seemed like the reasonable path to take.

Interesting if you compare the state of existence of the two young men I spoke with. One just came back from Iraq where his life was on the line everyday. He had no choice about his assignment. He is now back in the states. When I asked him what would make him happy, what he wanted to do as a civilian, he said go for an easy/safe run. Regardless, he seemed very much appreciative of the very fact that we was just living and in the States.

The other gent seemed unhappy with his current state and seemed to think that going on to another self oriented goal would quench whatever ailment or dissatisfied bone gnaws at him.

I am not sure how either young man's plight will end.

I am thankful I am alive and can run.

Both baught shoes.

When you like what you do and find purpose in it, the money might come but you will be happy and fulfilled, which, is more valuable than money.

Cougar Run

Reaves, Bain, and I are planning to do a long run at Greenbelt Park on Sunday at 10.

Some of you may remember this run from August, when Reaves introduced us to his favorite college stomping grounds - a place where he learned to live in harmony with the Cougar. Unfortunately for our friend Jarrin, the Cougar was on the prowl and looking to strike. After that eventful run, a survelince video from the Univ. of Maryland caught the Cougar on tape, where it was determined to be nothing more than a large ferral cat.

All are welcome to join us Sunday morning for this long run. It consists of several loops of a 6 mile trail so everyone can trim or extend this run as necessary. Here are directions to the parking lot where we will meet.

SAT RUN

There will be a Saturday run tomorrow. 830AM. All are welcome.

Once a Runner Article

My HS teammate Marc Tracy has an article on slate.com about once a runner. (Link)

A quote from his article is quote of the day on www.letsrun.com

LOVE TO RUN/INTELLIGENCE/RESPECT AND A NEW YEAR

As I ran along with mighty Chris Bain and the RED FOX on some 14 mile run yesterday(the longest and hardest run I have done in 4 months, many thoughts popped into the head. At first, I was thinking that I was nuts to run this much today and for the first time ever, I actually had some doubt at to whether I was in good enough shape to run so long.

The only tactic I could hope to use was my mouth. I decided I would try to talk the whole time in order to keep the pace down and even use the old bathroom break drill a few times. For the most part it worked until the two young bucks took off over the last 3 miles or so. I thought, during this time, to give chase but thought better of it and simply stayed content to move along with the old Lockwood shuffle. I was perfectly happy to simply mozy on at a reasonable pace and enjoy the beautiful weather.

The last year and really, the last two years have been terrible for me in terms of running. Injury after injury. Granted, none of them have been like Jarrin's that have put me on the shelf for months but just little nicks and chips in the armour to make running less fun.

Like Jarrin, I took a journey during this time to visit specialists and others to help me cure my ailments. Because I was so interested in getting fixed I listened to what the specialists said and tried their remedies for a bit. For the most part they partially worked and more or less served as band aids or temporary fixes.

In retrospect, when my body started to feel beat up I should have simply taken a month off and gone to Jamaica and lived on a beach and enjoyed the good life. This would have provided a nice break from the mental and physical addiction of running. As all of you know, the sport can be all encompassing to the point where it dominates your very existence.

This is all water the under the bridge now. The legs are feeling better and a new year awaits.

Respecting the body means letting it live an easy and harmonious existence as well as making it do things it was not really meant to do.

I ran an easy 9 or 10 miles with Bill Askey this morning. We talked about Football and random things.

Bring on 09

RUN ON NEW YEARS DAY

Rather than try and plan anything elaborate or run in some ultra sleep deprived state, i am running from the G-town Store on New Years day at 10am. Nothing too dangerous. Just a 70 minute run to celebrate the new year.

all paces/all abilities and so on are welcome


peace out and be safe out there!

Max

Year in Review

As 2008 comes to a close, here is a look back at some of the many successes the GRC has had this year. With the help of a few others, I’ve listed the accolades below in (roughly) sequential order.

CHERRY BLOSSOM - Caroline White, Jake Klim, Laura Turner and Melissa Tanner all finish in the top 25. PRs by Patrick Reaves, Patrick Murphy, Billy Askey and others. GRC Men finish second in team competition.

BOSTON MARATHON - GRC Men (Reaves, Bain, Klim) place 4th out of 45 as a team at the "Boston Marathon". Top 5 (also including Patrick Murphy, Jason Dwyer) all run 2:36 or better. GRC the only team with three (let alone five) runners to finish within five minutes of each other. Solid performances by Jarrin, Max, and Ernst as well.

FREDERICK MARATHON - Melissa Tanner wins with a time of 2:56:17

The success of the inaugural GEORGETOWN CLASSIC 8K ~ 356 finishers.

GRANDMA’S MARATHON - Chris Raabe is the 13th fastest men's marathoner in 2008 with a 2:17:35

BAYSHORE MARATHON - a sub 2:50 marathon, and PR, by Robert JARRIN (2:49:19)

ANNAPOLIS 10 MILER - Patrick Reaves repeats as the Champion

Peter "Towpath" Silverman wins inaugural RUN GEEK RUN 8K and the SOMERSET 8K. Patrick Murphy and Dyaln Keith follow up in second and third at Run Geek Run, Caroline White second (?) female as GRC wins team title.

BALTIMORE MARATHON - the return of Wilson Komen! 2:22:40!

MARINE CORPS MARATHON - Melisa Tanner wins bronze at "Marine Corps Marathon" running a 5 minute PR of 2:51. GRC Team (Reaves, Timm, Tanner) wins top honors

PHILADELPHIA MARATHON - Matt Ernst PRs with a 3:07

Philippe Rolly wins the NORTH FACE CHALLENE 50 MILER

Domination of GRC at the JINGLE ALL THE WAY 10K. Two teams sweep team awards, Five GRC women in top six.

The first GRC Christmas Party!

The success of the “GRC Media Team” ~ Peter Silverman (camera/editing), Dylan Keith (correspondent) and Robert Jarrin (photos)

The arrival of the NEW singlets!

Last, but not least, the addition of the following new members:
Chris Bain, Patrick Hughes, Alex Eversmeyer, Caroline White, Lindsey Jerdonik, Robert JARRIN, Sam Blasiak, Sheena Dahlke, Johnathan Amato, Diego Miralles, Geir Sølve Sande Lie, Shannon O’Neill…like an acceptance speech, I am likely forgetting a few. If I've forgotten you, I do apologize.

How did YOU do this year? Please feel free to add additional attributes AND please list off your personal 2008 bests along with races where you PR’d.

Thanks Ben, Max, Allen, Sheena, Zach, Chris, Gene and everyone else at both GRC stores for your support!

Auld Lang Syne. Here is to 2009!

New Years Eve Run

New Years Eve DAY Run

8:00am WEDNESDAY @ "The Line"

The "Zoo Loop"

Please RSVP

So far - me, Bain, Max...others?

Track Workout Tuesday

Klim, Bain, and I are meeting at Bethesda-Chevy Chase HS at 6:45pm on Tuesday for a track workout. We plan to run 800m repeats. All are welcome.

A NEW YEAR IS UPON US AND......

I have purchased a new red shirt and red tights to run with.

As for running, I want to do a new year's day run. I am willing to meet at the g-town store, great falls, etc. Please post a comment if interested.


As for whether Jarrin should run Boston, that is a hard question to answer. I have read some of his blog posts over the last few months and something deep inside his inner soul is or has made him borderline obsessive compulsive about working out and overcoming his injuries.

Though i have made reference to my injuries and battles with them, I am not nearly as diligent as Mr. Robert in terms of doing the PT and going to the gym for hrs upon hrs. If this work has indeed paid off, then it shall serve as a model for all.

RUN BOSTON JARRIN---I will run it with you and we can suffer together.

take care and happy holidays

Falmouth Road Race

This is super early, but I know some people like to plan vacation time well in advance...

I plan to trek to Cape Cod again next August for the Falmouth Road Race. The FRR is a 7 mile race run on the western end of Cape Cod. It's a classic in the mold of Cherry Blossom, Bix, Boilermaker and Peachtree. Meb was the top American last year. They cap the amount of runners due to logistics etc and registration typically starts (and ends quickly!) in May. You have plenty of time to decide whether you want to do it, but all are welcome to crash at my pad for a few days; engage in some water sports, drink O'Douls, go clamming and of course run/race. It would be great to get a good squad of GRC singlets at this "away meet". I think the FRR is my favorite race course; majestic views of the ocean, undulating hills and great crowd support. Matt Ernst ran it last year, as did Mike Fleg, Scott Munro and Michelle Sikes.

It also could be a fun road trip (Dylan?) and we would likely need to take only a day or two off for work. All this can be determined later, but below is a tentative schedule (I think 8/9 will be the date):

Friday/Saturday - arrive
Sunday, August 9 - Race Day...post-race party at my house or Matt Ernst's house (Matt - can we have a beach party at your house?)
Monday, August 10 - head home

Does this interest anyone? See the website below for more information.

http://www.falmouthroadrace.com/

Last minute time change: Sunday, 8am @ "The Line"

I was going to run from the line at 10am but am now joining an 8am group.

RUN ON SUN AT 8AM

I am meeting at the Staples on M st at 8am on Sun for a run. Staples is right next to the store.

If you want to come you can store your stuff at the store. Max

RUN ON SAT

It is supposed to be warm tomorrow so come out and run. I will open the store at 8isham for those in town who want to run and chat.

I am thinking 10 miles as run/speak pace.

USATF XC Champs

If you plan to run the USATF XC Championships, you MUST sign up to be a member of USATF by Friday 1/16. Upon signing up, please e-mail me your name (that you signed up with) and you membership number. Please do this SOONEST.

I will, in turn, sign us up as a team the next day (1/17). Thanks.

BOSTON/THE CHARLES RIVER AND LIFE

THIS CHRISTMAS DAY MORNING I AWOKE TO 40 degree temps in my hometown of Cambridge, MA. Even though I always tell people I am from Boston I really grew up in the next town over, Cambridge. I grew up on a little street called Inman street, basically between Harvard Square and MIT. All of my friends and neighbors I grew up with were either "wicked smart" or just plain "wicked". None the less, I am still around to tell about such things.

I spent the first 29 years of my existence on earth in the this area.

This morning as I battled a fierce wind on the Charles River during my 90 minute run so many memories and thoughts flowed through the mind. As I ran I looked over towards Beacon Hill and remembered that I spent one whole year working that neighborhood as a US Park Ranger where I was tasked with managing and overseeing a small National Historic Site called the Black Heritage Trail. This trail commemorates the history of the region's first free African American community and their accomplishments. If my memory serves me right Massachusetts was the second colony/state to outlaw slavery, the first being Pennsylvania. One of my jobs was to stand out in front of the Robert Gould Shaw Memorial on State street and talk to tourists about the famed 54th Regiment, the first African American fighting unit commissioned by the North to do battle in the Civil War. The film Glory is about this unit.

Later during the run I recalled working as Park Ranger on the Freedom Trail where I was tasked with talking to the public about the origins of the American Revolution and some of the early philosophical thought behind our great US constitution. I remember giving talks at "the Cradle of Liberty", Faneuil Hall about the famed Sons of Liberty and their exploits. My stint as US Park Ranger gave fuel to my idealistic side as it provided me with insight into the greatness of this country and why one must never take the freedoms and opportunities we have been blessed with for granted.

As I battled the wind on the run i remembered countless times as a little kid riding my BMX out on the Charles and meandering in and out between all of the 'dorky runners' and thinking to myself, what weirdos.

Life goes by fast and running is but a reflection

Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas and so on

M

Christmas Day run

I am planning on getting in an easy 5 mile run at RCP tomorrow. The plan is to head down towards the valley and get on the golf course trail (the course is closed Christmas Day so you don't have to worry about getting smacked with a golf ball). Interested parties should meet at 12 noon at the parking lot adjacent St. John's college high school. See map:

View Larger Map

LADIES NIGHT FASHION SHOW

Last night the Chevy Chase store hosted Ladies Night, a fashion show focused on women's winter running apparel. There were a host of vendors and businesses there to promote fitness and their goods. All in all it was a nice success. Good turnout and pleasant holiday cheer in abundance.

Various celebraties decided to crash the party including Alan Webb. I had an opportunity to speak with him about training. I was pleasantly surprised to hear that he considers the DC area to be one of the best running areas in the country in terms of providing quality training. He loves Difficult Run, in particular. I will see if he will come out on a run with the GRC gang one of these days.

Thanks to Lauren, Allen and Sheena for working as a team to make the show happen.

Happy Holidays

Be careful out there...runner attacked near Key Bridge.

ARLINGTON, Va. -- A man was attacked while jogging near the Key Bridge and the GW Parkway Thursday morning.

He had just run off the bridge into Virginia and accessed the bike path on the south side of the bridge when he was hit with a bottle several times on the back of his head.

The victim was treated and released from an area hospital.

The attacker took the man's iPod, $80 and two credit cards.

The attacker was a white man of medium build in his mid-to-late 30s. He had curly brown-gray hair. He may be homeless, Park Police said.

Sunday Run @ the line

PR and I are planning to meet up for a long run on Sunday at "The Line" (here) at 10 AM. Please post a comment if you plan to join.

RUNNING ON THE MILL

Even though I was sort of injured at a Thanksgiving day race I have been able to run on the Treadmill for long periods with relative ease and comfort. Not sure why

Ran for 2hrs on the Mill and discussed macro economics with a buddy who works at an investment firm on K st. He is ultra smart and is convinced horrific things will happen before our country rights itself. He is already buying a house in the country to retreat to.

None the less, I hope he is wrong as I love running on the Mill. Its borderline surreal. I feel sort of like a caged in animal with lots of creature comforts around me.

Upon conclusion of the run, i stretched and did some interesting hip strengthening work that has really helped the hamstring and glute muscles. I can even touch the toes with ease now.

When all else seems out of whack there is always the run to retreat to.

peace out

RUNNING/TO/FAT CATS AND CHICKENS ROOSTING

First and foremost I have always been a firm proponent of DOING THE RIGHT THING and secondly, that chickens will come home to roost or what comes around goes around, etc.

As I did a 97 minute run on the treadmill today I watched ESPN shows that seemed intent on making Terrel Owens seem like the second coming of Hitler and then switched to Wolf Blitzer talking to people about the Armageddon surrounding our economic state.

I have always admired Owens for his football prowess and brilliant athletic ability. Yes, he acts selfish, yes, he has personality flaws and you know what, we all do. So what. He sells tickets and makes owners wealthy and gives the fans something to talk about. He does not beat people up, shoot himself and or others and is a pretty gutsy ball player to boot. Plus, his antics make me laugh.

As for Wolf Blitzer and the onslaught of negativity surrounding our economic state, it is what it is due to greed and poor management and oversight of our financial institutions. Many people saw this coming years ago. Many top level economists predicted such a state would slam us. Either nobody listened or they were too busy buying things they could not afford, playing on MY SPACE and or, lending institutions ignored common lending practices in order to get a quick buck. Its probably a combination of all of the aforementioned and more. Bottom line is this is happening for a legitimate reason and we will have to handle it as mature and responsible citizens and this means handling it head on.

You can absorbe all of this and more during a 90 minute treadmill session so yes, life is indeed interesting.

A day in the life of a runner

Thursday Happy Hour

If any of you are interested myself, some GRCers and some other random people are meeting on Thursday for a Christmas-themed Happy Hour. Details below...

THURSDAY at 6:00 at Chef Geoff's downtown, just off Penn Ave. on 14th or
13th St. (I think?). We'll stay there long enough for everyone to get a
cheap 'uge brew or two and half-price burger, then set out for a
Kringle-mingle around the White House around 8 where we will see the White House Christmas Tree. SLAM DUNK!

The Man is Begging People to Buy Stuff

Seriously, did I see 0% - 0.25% target rate? Geeez, if you've ever thought of buying a house/condo/property NOW is the time to do it.

"Be fearful when others are greedy. Be greedy when others are fearful." - Warren Buffett

Don't be scurrred.

CB10M Online Registration CLOSED

Yikes!

Prepare yourselves

Jingle All the Way

I posted my race report on my blog - http://jakeklim.blogspot.com/.

Thanks to Towpath and JARRIN for taking media and thanks to everyone who came to cheer us on today at the chilly windy "point"; Matt Ernst, Melissa, Dylan...sorry if I am forgetting anyone.

Special kudos to Reaves, Lindsey, Caroline and Jonathan who all set PRs.

1 1/292 17 Susannah Kvasnicka 36 GREAT FALLS VA 36:14 36:14 5:50 18:13
2 1/325 4 Caroline White 23 COLLEGE PARK MD 36:31 36:31 5:53 18:29
3 1/603 35 Erin Swain 26 ARLINGTON VA 36:35 36:34 5:53 18:17
4 2/292 15 Hilary Cairns 38 WASHINGTON DC 37:41 37:41 6:04
5 2/603 9 Laura O'Hara 28 WASHINGTON DC 37:45 37:44 6:05 18:52
6 2/325 13 Lindsey Jerdonek 24 SILVER SPRING MD 37:56 37:54 6:06 19:00
7 3/292 3594 Mary Davison 36 BRISTOW VA 38:13 38:11 6:09 19:02
8 1/401 1368 Dionis Gauvin 34 WASHINGTON DC 39:24 39:22 6:21 20:05
9 1/186 3968 Samantha Kirby 40 ARLINGTON VA 39:45 39:43 6:24 19:46
10 4/292 2412 Jeanette Dumbrell 39 FALLS CHURCH VA 39:49 39:46 6:24 19:51
11 2/401 2127 Sari Stenholm 30 COLUMBIA MD 39:53 39:51 6:25 20:03
12 3/603 4130 Laura Ramos 29 N BETHESDA MD 40:05 40:04 6:27 20:04
13 3/401 2489 Kelly Green 32 WASHINGTON DC 40:23 40:19 6:30 20:11
14 3/325 3957 D Melani Hom 23 WASHINGTON DC 40:24 40:22 6:30 19:58
15 4/603 4092 Jenny Fitzgerald 29 ALEXANDRIA VA 40:26 40:25 6:31 19:23
16 5/603 4345 Julia Speer 28 WASHINGTON DC 40:54 40:32 6:32 21:20
17 6/603 3388 Kristin Andrews 27 BETHESDA MD 40:45 40:45 6:34
18 1/125 4311 Win Persina 48 WASHINGTON DC 41:42 41:38 6:42 20:56
19 2/125 3738 Patricia Zerfas 46 KENSINGTON MD 42:16 42:13 6:48 20:48
20 7/603 4301 Jenny Goransson 25 ARLINGTON VA 42:15 42:13 6:48 21:16
21 8/603 4245 Linda Johnson 25 WASHINGTON DC 42:34 42:28 6:50 21:32
22 4/401 3230 Krystal Boxeth 31 WASHINGTON DC 43:00 42:45 6:53 21:17
23 9/603 2359 Ansley Erdel 28 WASHINGTON DC 43:06 42:53 6:54 21:46
24 2/186 3870 Brooke Curran 40 ALEXANDRIA VA 43:00 42:54 6:55 21:47
25 5/401 3075 Cristina Burbach 34 WASHINGTON DC 43:10 43:05 6:56 21:57
26 3/186 2948 Diana Lazarus 41 WASHINGTON DC 44:47 43:11 6:57 23:44
27 4/325 3862 Lauren Willy 23 ALEXANDRIA VA 43:37 43:12 6:58 22:04
28 10/603 4110 Melissa Wisner 25 WASHINGTON DC 43:22 43:12 6:58 21:44
29 11/603 7 Sheena Dahlke 25 GERMANTOWN MD 43:17 43:14 6:58 21:06
30 1/70 2979 Megan Dunn 19 WASHINGTON DC 44:13 43:23 6:59 22:51


1 1/134 3574 John Butler 24 SYRACUSE NY 31:04 31:03 5:00 15:56
2 1/297 34 Bert Rodriguez 29 ARLINGTON VA 31:13 31:13 5:02 15:56
3 1/257 36 Aaron Church 33 SOUTH RIDING VA 31:36 31:36 5:06 15:57
4 2/257 33 Wilson Komen 30 WASHINGTON DC 31:42 31:41 5:06 15:56
5 2/297 8 Jake Klim 28 N BETHESDA MD 31:46 31:46 5:07 15:56
6 1/232 32 Ray Pugsley 39 POTOMAC FALLS VA 31:54 31:54 5:08 16:00
7 2/134 16 Patrick Reaves 24 SILVER SPRING MD 32:18 32:18 5:12 16:03
8 3/134 31 Justin Fritzius 24 PURCELLVILLE VA 32:41 32:40 5:16 16:20
9 4/134 3825 Greg Lane 22 ARLINGTON VA 33:06 33:05 5:20 17:15
10 5/134 30 Christopher Sheaffer 24 PURCELLVILLE VA 33:18 33:18 5:22 16:40
11 3/297 12 Billy Askey 25 ARLINGTON VA 33:25 33:24 5:23 16:43
12 1/143 4458 Andres Wright 42 FREDERICK MD 33:32 33:30 5:24 16:47
13 3/257 3768 David O'Hara 32 WASHINGTON DC 33:44 33:43 5:26 16:48
14 6/134 6 Patrick Hughes 22 WASHINGTON DC 33:48 33:47 5:27 16:54
15 4/297 14 Allen Carr 25 WASHINGTON DC 33:55 33:53 5:28 17:10
16 1/108 39 Mark Stickley 46 WINCHESTER VA 34:02 34:01 5:29 16:59
17 2/232 2126 Pekka Stenholm 36 COLUMBIA MD 34:05 34:04 5:29 16:55
18 3/232 38 Eric Makovsky 35 WASHINGTON DC 34:10 34:10 5:30 17:00
19 4/257 3 Christopher Bain 31 ROCKVILLE MD 34:12 34:11 5:30 17:24
20 5/297 3430 Chris Sloane 25 N POTOMAC MD 34:16 34:16 5:31 17:20
21 5/257 3389 Steven Moore 30 BETHESDA MD 35:18 34:30 5:33 17:54
22 7/134 3921 Jimmy Daly 22 WASHINGTON DC 34:46 34:46 5:36 17:01
23 6/297 10 Nathan Timm 28 MONTGOMERY VILL MD 34:51 34:50 5:37 17:12
24 7/297 3570 Rodee Schneider 27 WASHINGTON DC 35:07 35:03 5:39 17:59
25 6/257 3134 Ken Walker 30 BETHESDA MD 35:13 35:11 5:40 17:42
26 8/134 5 Patrick Murphy 24 WASHINGTON DC 35:33 35:33 5:44 17:33
27 2/143 2529 Bill Bray 43 FAIRFAX VA 35:42 35:41 5:45 17:58
28 1/42 4075 Michael Kerrigan 17 FAIRFAX VA 36:07 36:06 5:49 17:52
29 9/134 2821 Justin Withoff 22 ORONO MN 36:12 36:09 5:49 18:03
30 10/134 53 Joe Devine 21 WASHINGTON DC 36:09 36:09 5:50 18:13
31 4/232 3045 Jon Torrance 37 WASHINGTON DC 36:21 36:20 5:51 17:45
32 8/297 3757 Matthew White 25 STAFFORD VA 36:27 36:25 5:52 17:52
33 7/257 3891 David Wertz 33 ARLINGTON VA 36:29 36:28 5:52 18:17
34 5/232 4418 Rich Hayes 37 BURKE VA 36:43 36:41 5:55 18:51
35 9/297 2141 Steve Hammel 27 ARLINGTON VA 37:10 37:08 5:59 19:02
36 8/257 3606 Brian Forsgren 31 WASHINGTON DC 37:18 37:12 6:00 18:49
37 2/42 2598 Kyle Gutierrez 19 WOODBRIDGE VA 37:17 37:17 6:00 18:08
38 11/134 352 James Blackwood 24 ELLICOTT CITY MD 37:21 37:19 6:01 18:28
39 9/257 1683 David Bernand 33 MCLEAN VA 37:22 37:20 6:01 18:55
40 12/134 3665 Michael O'Rourke 24 GAITHERSBURG MD 37:23 37:20 6:01 18:33
41 10/297 2194 Ray Maker 26 ALEXANDRIA VA 37:23 37:21 6:01 18:17
42 13/134 450 Joseph Sheffield 21 ANNAPOLIS MD 37:33 37:23 6:01 18:57
43 14/134 2865 Andrew Sovonick 22 GAITHERSBURG MD 37:27 37:26 6:02 18:28
44 11/297 60 Brian Savitch 29 WASHINGTON DC 37:30 37:27 6:02 18:35
45 12/297 4050 Douglas Hickey 25 ARLINGTON VA 37:37 37:34 6:03 19:01
46 15/134 2549 Anthony Guy 21 ANNAPOLIS MD 37:50 37:39 6:04 19:03
47 13/297 1827 Alemayehu Tamirat 26 WASHINGTON DC 37:59 37:54 6:06 18:48
48 14/297 2834 James Olsen 27 WASHINGTON DC 38:07 37:56 6:07 19:25
49 1/48 21 Richard Adams Jr 57 HERNDON VA 38:04 38:03 6:08 18:40
50 10/257 882 Brian Young 30 WASHINGTON DC 38:09 38:04 6:08 19:03
51 3/143 4065 Matt Anderson 42 FAIRFAX VA 38:07 38:06 6:08 19:08
52 11/257 3861 Gary Williams 30 ALEXANDRIA VA 38:42 38:17 6:10 19:34
53 4/143 4058 Bryan Mikesh 44 FAIRFAX VA 38:23 38:22 6:11 18:54
54 6/232 3286 Miguel Penella 39 ARLINGTON VA 38:26 38:23 6:11 19:22
55 15/297 3336 Jim Cardosi 29 ALEXANDRIA VA 38:44 38:24 6:11 19:58
56 12/257 4368 Bryan Ruff 31 MOYOCK NC 38:35 38:30 6:12 19:22
57 13/257 3942 Brian Beary 33 WASHINGTON DC 38:42 38:36 6:13 19:48
58 7/232 22 Adrian Fenty 38 WASHINGTON DC 38:44 38:43 6:14 19:58
59 2/108 4313 Bryan Speey 45 LITTLETON CO 38:53 38:52 6:16 19:35
60 14/257 3632 Richard Greene 30 WASHINGTON DC 38:55 38:53 6:16 19:44
61 16/297 1129 Dave Fontaine 29 WASHINGTON DC 39:02 38:55 6:16 19:42
62 16/134 4072 Justin Sinichko 20 BURKE VA 39:06 39:04 6:18 19:10
63 17/297 2542 Joshua Carnes 26 WASHINGTON DC 39:25 39:17 6:20 19:23
64 15/257 18 Jonathan Amato 34 ARLINGTON VA 39:20 39:18 6:20
65 18/297 2816 Daniel Coogan 27 HYATTSVILLE MD 41:43 39:23 6:21 22:11

MARTHA STUART AND THE AMERICAN DREAM

I know we face tough times. Recently watched the Martha Stuart cooking show while working out on something called the ARC TRAINER.

Martha's story reminds us that all is possible.

LIVE LARGE AND BE HUMBLE

PS. know this is not directly running related but I a firm backer of the 6-degrees of separation theory.

M

Shots from Today's Jingle All the Way 10K...

The GRC was out in force competing at the Jingle All the Way 10K held this morning on Haines Point.

My entire roll of pictures can be found here (they're still loading as of this post). Some of my favorites are on my blog which can be found here. I know Towpath is preparing some great footage and Dylan Nietzsche was also on hand with his bazooka.

Don't know who the gentleman is pictured below but we should recruit him for the team.

Enjoy,

- JARRIN

Greetings from Hong Kong!

Hello everyone!
I'm visiting this amazing city for the first time to celebrate the wedding
of my college roommate Edwin, whom some of you met last summer at a party I organized when he was visiting the US. It's been a BLAST to take part of the wedding (my first chinese wedding) and I haven't
been able to run much, but I thought I'd share some of the views of the few
times I did get out to run around here.

I'm staying in the district of Sai Kung, which is located in the New Territories region of Hong Kong, north east from Hong Kong island (click for map). This is a great area to run and it is a great contrast to downtown Hong Kong with its skyscrapers (see above pic) and streets bustling with activity at all times of the day (think Times Square in NYC). Sai Kung is very green and the coast can be easily accessed, thus making it very scenic and pleasant to run in, so long you don't mind the hills :) For instance, on my way to Kowloon, I found a hill which I estimate is about 2 miles long (see link to pictures below)!

The weather around this time of the year is fairly nice by the DC area standards in December (50s-70s F) and I found myself running in shorts and t-shirt :), but the air feels a bit polluted at times, specially as one approaches the city. I've posted a few pictures here, I hope you enjoy them, cheers!
~

MICHELLE SYKES SIGHTING

I happened upon the LetsRun website and noticed Michelle Sykes is mentioned. For those that do not know her, we were lucky to have Michelle visit us here last year. Michelle is certainly the most famous runner I have run with. She was the NCAA champion a few years back for the 5k and is a Rhodes Scholar.

I was fortunate enough to have been a training partner with her for a bit and got to know the low down on elite running(not really).

She is sponsored by Nike and talent-wise, is the real deal.

As per my custom, I encouraged her to pursue the Rhodes Scholarship route in terms of attainment of a long term career.

I am sure she has a bright future and will do the world a lot of good once she focuses on what she wants to do.

On a somewhat funny note, she had JARRIN pegged after spending less than 1 hr. with him. Either she is really smart or Jarrin reveals too much. Jarrin, above all else, she truly adores you.



Quote of the eve

"You can choose to do great things for the world or you can choose not to, which will it be"?

Rileys at 11am

Late Breaking...

Bain and I are meeting at Riley's Lock at 11am TODAY for 13 miles. Let me know if you plan to come.

Party Time!

Race Day!

I plan on getting to Haines Point on Sunday around 6:45am in an effort to get my number/swank and get myself organized under one of those trees on the edge of the field.

It'd be great to do a group warm-up (15 mins) at 7:15am. If you're interested, meet near the finish line a little after 7:00 so we can all get going 15 minutes later. That allows for 30 minutes of extra warm-up, bathroom, stretching and warm-up tossing. The gun will go off at 8:00am sharp.

GRC's incredible media division, second only to the Associated Press here in DC, will be in full force with JARRIN snapping hi-rez pictures and Towpath shooting DV tape. Remember to smile.

Please don't forget to wear your GRC singlet and any GRC warm-ups/clothing you might have. Assuming it doesn't storm, I'll have on my blue top/black pants and black GRC cap. If anyone on the list (Ben, Max, Allen etc) has an extra singlet, please bring that to the race. I know some people have singlets that are too big/small and we can do a swap.

Sunday Weather: Times of sun and clouds. Highs in the mid 40s and lows in the upper 30s.

See you at 7:15am for the warm-up! Do it. Below is our team:

18 AMATO, JONATHAN M 34 GRC - CHEVY CHASE OM
12 ASKEY, BILLY M 25 GRC - CHEVY CHASE OM
3 BAIN, CHRISTOPHER M 31 GRC - CHEVY CHASE OM
15 CAIRNS, HILARY F 38 GRC - CHEVY CHASE OM
7 DAHLKE, SHEENA F 25 GRC - CHEVY CHASE OM
11 EVERSMEYER, ALEX M 27 GRC - CHEVY CHASE OM
6 HUGHES, PATRICK M 22 GRC - CHEVY CHASE OM
13 JERDONEK, LINDSEY F 24 GRC - CHEVY CHASE OM
10 TIMM, NATHAN M 28 GRC - CHEVY CHASE OM
14 CARR, ALLEN M 25 GRC - GEORGETOWN OM
8 KLIM, JAKE M 28 GRC - GEORGETOWN OM
17 KVASNICKA, SUSANNAH F 36 GRC - GEORGETOWN OM
5 MURPHY, PATRICK M 24 GRC - GEORGETOWN OM
9 O'HARA, LAURA F 28 GRC - GEORGETOWN OM
16 REAVES, PATRICK M 24 GRC - GEORGETOWN OM
4 WHITE, CAROLINE F 23 GRC - GEORGETOWN OM

Tucson Marathon Recap

Can be read HERE!

Georgetown Running Company @ Chevy Chase Presents...

Ladies’ Night on Saturday, December 20, 2008, 5-7pm

Join the Georgetown Running Company at Chevy Chase for a night of fashion, food, fittings,
and friends. Experience the latest in winter running clothes while getting fitted for the perfect sports bra and running shoes. Talk with experienced runners, massage therapists, and nutritionists – even learn the importance of yoga for runners.

Ladies’ Night at the Georgetown Running Company at Chevy Chase is also a meet and greet for the Friendship Heights community. Enjoy delicious food and drinks from local restaurants, pamper yourself with samples from area salons, gain information on local gyms, and more!

A special thanks to our partners...

Terrel Hale, Sports Massage Therapist and Personal Trainer (301) 943-8738 www.terrelhale.com
Rebecca Scritchfield, Sports Nutritionist, MA, RD, LD (202) 375-8942 www.elitenutritiondc.com
Be You Bi Yu, Wellness Center & Spa in Bethesda (301) 493-4911 www.beyouspa.com
Down Dog Yoga, featuring “Yoga for Runners” (301) 654-9644 www.downdogyoga.com
Chipotle of Chevy Chase: Gourmet Burritos and Tacos (301) 654-6661 www.chipotle.com
Girls Gotta Run Foundation, volunteer organization for Ethiopian girls www.girlsgottarun.org
Julia Rudd, sports bra fitting specialist www.saucony.com
Perfect Organics, makeup session with Amanda Chawansky www.perfectorganics.com
and more!!

Ladies’ Night at Georgetown Running Company at Chevy Chase
December 20, 2008 5-7pm
4461 Willard Avenue
Chevy Chase, MD 20815
(301) 215-6355
Please RSVP

Arrive early! Free shirts for first 20 fashionistas! Door prizes! FREE gift wrapping!
20% off all running shoes and apparel! Swag! Meet other runners in your area!

Attention Men: Stop by to find a gift for that special someone just in time for the holidays!

Attention GRC Men (and ladies): Post below if you're available to come to Ladies' Night and act as a server, model, videographer, etc...

Reminders

1. If you're running the JAW 10k, please send in your form ASAP (ideally today). Below, according to the RunWash website (dated 12/6), are the folks currently signed up:

18 AMATO, JONATHAN M 34 GRC - CHEVY CHASE OM
12 ASKEY, BILLY M 25 GRC - CHEVY CHASE OM
3 BAIN, CHRISTOPHER M 31 GRC - CHEVY CHASE OM
15 CAIRNS, HILARY F 38 GRC - CHEVY CHASE OM
7 DAHLKE, SHEENA F 25 GRC - CHEVY CHASE OM
11 EVERSMEYER, ALEX M 27 GRC - CHEVY CHASE OM
6 HUGHES, PATRICK M 22 GRC - CHEVY CHASE OM
13 JERDONEK, LINDSEY F 24 GRC - CHEVY CHASE OM
10 TIMM, NATHAN M 28 GRC - CHEVY CHASE OM

14 CARR, ALLEN M 25 GRC - GEORGETOWN OM
8 KLIM, JAKE M 28 GRC - GEORGETOWN OM
5 MURPHY, PATRICK M 24 GRC - GEORGETOWN OM
9 O'HARA, LAURA F 28 GRC - GEORGETOWN OM
16 REAVES, PATRICK M 24 GRC - GEORGETOWN OM
4 WHITE, CAROLINE F 23 GRC - GEORGETOWN OM

2. If you're going to the GRC Holiday Party on Friday night, please RSVP on the GRC Calendar to the right (look for the Xmas Party tab). And thanks for PMurph/Bain for bringing something to eat! Good God, I thought I might starve. In lieu of cognac, I may bring KFC of something. I will still bring egg nog.

3. If you're running the USATFXC Champs in Feb and you are NOT a member of USATF, you must sign up and become one. I need to do this too...

Monday Run

Meeting a friend at 6:30pm today - Thompson Boathouse next to the water fountain along the waterfront. Probably head out on the Key Bridge, Mt V trail, back around to either Arlington or 14th st bridge. Around 10 miles

THE FRENCHMAN AND WARDIAN

duked it out in San Fran this past Sat. at the North Face 50 mile ultra championship race. When I first met these guys they were busting it up and down the streets of DC winning 5 and 10ks. Now they are making names for themselves on the National stage at the ultra distance.

Wardian is our generation's FOREST GUMP and Rolly is just plain methodical in his approach to running.

Wardian placed 9 and Rolly 12.

Congrats to both and rest well

First Half-Marathon

I ran my first half-marathon today-the Gar Williams Half Marathon in Alexandria (A DCRRC race.) I ran 1:29.01 according to my watch, but the official race time was 1:28.43. I think that was off.

In any event, I achieved my primary goal of breaking 1:30 but I was hoping to run in the 1:25 range. Having never raced anything longer than a 10K, I found it to be a challenge to consistently stay focused for each and every mile. I didn't really blow up, but there were a couple of miles where I got complacent for a while. (I split 6:23, 6:46, 6:56, 6:40, 6:46, 6:48, 6:49, 6:35, 6:52, 7:01, 6:55, 6:42, and 6:44.)

I do feel pretty sore right now, especially in the thighs (The family Turkey Bowl did not help matters-I stopped feeling sore from that on Friday, and then ran 13.1 on Saturday.) Any thoughts as to recovery would be appreciated. I've done some stretching and will continue to do so.

I finished 12th out of 225 or so, although there were a couple of "unofficial" runners who would have beaten me if they had registered for the race. Like Allen. One of these days I will actually get into the top ten at one of these local races.

One other positive out of the the half is that Matt no longer can bug me because I have never done a long race, although I am sure that he will be starting in on me to do a marathon soon enough. :)

I miss Dwyer

Something was missing this morning, couldn't figure out what it was, then it dawned on me. I miss Dwyer. I really really do.

Two years ago I met Dwyer, Klim and Max at the Line. Towards the end of the run Max darted off in his Brooks Running Company singlet/red shorts and Dwyer reeled him in. A month later, Dwyer helped pace me to a PR at the Al Lewis 10 miler.

Sunday Difficult Run

Bain and I are planning to run about 10 miles at Difficult Run at 10AM Sunday. All are welcome to join us.

Here's the location in case anyone doesn't know where it is.

Tough Running

This is tough stuff. A well written article that details a time trial last month by schoolboy Trevor Dunbar of Alaska. Think about this when you're on your 5th and 6th lap at USATFXC in February...

Gathering Storm
On November 8th, Trevor Dunbar ran a 9:01 3200 in a snowstorm which caught the attention of high school fans around the country. It only served to confirm something Alaskans have known for a while now: Dunbar is part of a renaissance in Alaskan prep distance running that the Lower 48 can no longer ignore.

The first thing you notice is the banality of the setting, the profound ordinariness of everything.A snow-dusted high school track on a frigid November day. A brushed-nickel sky that emanates light without providing warmth. An aging football scoreboard and a wind-whipped chainlink fence hard against a working class neighborhood. Bundled kids jogging around in mismatched outfits meant to keep the cold at bay. There is a siren wailing plaintively in the distance. An airplane humming on the horizon. This could be any athletic field at any high school in a thousand towns in America. It could be Shamokin, Pennsylvania or Goshen, Indiana or Ogden, Utah. It could be any number of places where high school runners routinely scratch out a few laps on half-frozen, 400-meter ovals in the interest of fitness. But it isn’t. This is an island 1500 miles northwest of Seattle, Washington.

The rest of the article (including pix and video) can be found here:
http://www.dyestat.com//?pg=dyestatnw-2008-XC-Trevor-Dunbar-Feature&PHPSESSID=21e2e537680dbd940605a804ced87c41

THE ELIPTICAL AND BRITNEY SPEARS

I spent 90 minutes on the Elliptical Trainer. Back and forth swinging the arms and dying of boredom. At some point, I turned on the TV and found some documentary about Britney Spears. I tried like madd to get into her life story, her beauty, music, etc. NO GO. Totally flat. In between her songs and video shoots she kept talking about her life and how hard it has been and how she gets upset when people call her short--------whoa.

I am sorry if she represents the 20something generation as a music icon, that's no good. In my day there was the Material Girl, vintage Michael Jackson, LL Cool J. (before he was on some tv show), the Beasty Boys, Red Hot Chili Peppers, the Cure, Natalie Merchant, the Clash and so on.

Needless to say, the Eliptical is a strange device. I am not sure if it does much. People sign up for it at the gym and go back and forth with their arms and seem to dig it.

time will tell___________

A day in the life of an injured runner.

GRC Holiday Party Reminder

Please remember to RSVP for the fiesta on the GRC Calendar and indicate what you'd like to bring. It would be a damn shame for Max to buy TOO much beer as a result of overestimating the party's attendance.

PLAXICO BURESS SYNDROME

I do not pretend to understand the mindset of NFL wide receivers or any pro football player, for that matter. So perhaps, this is a useless post. Who knows.

As it is..........

Last night I watched all kinds of sports analysis of the Plaxico Burress mess. Here is a guy making millions of dollars and sitting on the bench and still, manages to constantly get in trouble. As most of you know, he accidentally shot himself at a night club over the weekend. Not only does he ruin his leg from the gunshot wound, but he is facing jail time for carrying a gun without a license and other charges.

Bottom line: The guy was not using much intelligence. The question I ask, is why? Its not just him, its lots of football players. For some reason, its not enough that they get paid a lot to hurt themselves and others, but they still need to go out into the world and screw around. I do not understand this.

I have not observed this sort of behavior among runners.

I guess the closest we have to such behavior here in the running community, is Jake Klim, Towpath, Jarrin and others going off into the mountains in the dead of winter pretending to be rambo.

INTELLIGENCE

is in abundance. However, intelligence without discipline is useless and can be destructive.

Discipline is the key to making intelligence work to its potential. I was speaking to Ed Burke today about training, taking time off, cross training for running and the overall mental approach to making and maintaining a successful running career.

First and foremost, for those who do not know, Edmund Burke is almost 40 and has been running at a very high level here in DC for 15 years. In fact, over those 15 years, his times for 5 and 10k have not really gotten slower. I remember when he and Philippe Rolly would battle it out at the St Patrick's day 10k years and years ago. He ran 31 minutes then and he runs 31 minutes now. He is the Assistant track coach at AU and is one of the nicest guys around.

I saw him at the Turkey Trot where we chatted about training and such.

At every race he runs, he is always a threat to win and or place very high. He does not race much, but when he does, its for real.

Upon asking him about his tricks to maintaining a long and positive running life, he simply applies a very basic and simple formula.

Follow a basic training program, don't overdue it, don't race or run hard on weary legs and always take time off from hard exercise to allow the legs to properly heal.

After some hard headedness, i am following that advice.

When I asked him about cross training, he said he does some yoga and aqua jogging. Not much, though.

A holistic approach to sport is what i gathered from his description. It keeps the mind, the body and soul whole and complete.

Saturday Long Run

I won't be around on Sunday. Instead of trying to muscle my way through a long run while away in a distant land, I'm going to get it out of the way on Saturday. I plan to run from the store at 8:30am with the group...head up Glover Arch to Van Ness (the end) and cut back up through Rock Creek Park...but ending at the Canal rather than worming my way up through Georgetown (like we usually do). I will add on along the Canal and possibly open the stride a bit there. I am looking for companionship. The goal is 14-15. Easy for the first 7...then a gradual pick-up once we leave the trails and hit RCP. Do it!